Skills Training for Single Moms in Guatemala City

ISMU designs and develops projects to empower women and youth that will help spur economic growth in marginalized areas of Guatamala City. They also identify people with skills in trades that enable them to improve their living conditions and their willingness to share and improve their skills.

ISMU recently trained a group of 17 women to gain skills as handicrafts community teachers. A requirement of their program was to replicate their knowledge and skills in their respective communities to build economic empowerment and community organizing for women. Community leaders have been trained and can now track the progress of actions within the communities.

To help further cultural and economic development, ISMU is also working to build their education program that addresses socio-economic issues by supporting children to continue their education and providing parents workshops on human rights and family-related issues.  The education program has thus far demonstrated tangible results:

·      In addition to the recent scholarships provided to 183 students, 55 more scholarships were given to students in Guatemala City and Tejutla, including school supplies, uniforms and shoes.

·      Parents and caregivers are attending meetings that explain the scholastic progress of their children and offer a forum to discuss and learn about healthy adolescent development.

·      Monthly meetings are now being held for youth, which encompass training and a space to raise concerning issues affecting their communities and finding solutions to address them.

Empowerment, through programs such as these, is an ongoing process, but will enable families and communities to be involved in shaping and influencing positive change.

By supporting the efforts of ISMU, you play a role in empowering and enabling individuals, families and communities to lead informed, productive, and healthy lives!